Ep 1. Islay

"Time Team" Season 2 Episode 1: Islay

In the first episode of Season 2, the enthusiastic and skilled team of archaeologists, historians, and experts travel to the enchanting Scottish island of Islay. Nestled on the picturesque West Coast of Scotland, Islay is known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich history. With a history dating back thousands of years, Islay proves to be an intriguing location for the Time Team to explore.

Led by the affable and knowledgeable host, Tony Robinson, the Time Team embarks on a thrilling archaeological adventure to uncover the island's hidden secrets. As they arrive on the island, the team is greeted by the island's friendly local community, eager to witness what treasures the experts will unearth.

The episode begins with Tony introducing the team and outlining the questions they hope to answer: Who were the early inhabitants of Islay? How did they live their lives, and what stories do the land and artifacts tell about their culture? Armed with these inquiries and expert knowledge, the Time Team sets off to explore the island's intriguing past.

Using a combination of cutting-edge technology, traditional excavation techniques, and historical research, the team strategically selects three key sites for investigation. These sites have been specifically chosen for their potential to shed light on Islay's ancient history.

The first site the Time Team visits is a Bronze Age burial mound known as Burning Hill. With its mystical atmosphere and impressive views over the island, Burning Hill is believed to hold valuable insights into ancient burial practices. The team meticulously begins their investigation, carefully excavating the area around the mound to uncover any hidden artifacts or human remains. The discoveries they make provide valuable clues about the individuals buried here and the rituals associated with their passing.

Next, the team moves on to a unique feature on the island called a dùn. These Iron Age structures are ancient hillforts and defensive settlements, often found perched on hilltops for strategic advantage. The team's goal is to understand the purpose of these structures and gain deeper insights into the lives of the people who inhabited them. Through careful examination of the dùn's layout, defensive features, and artifacts found within, the Time Team members piece together a vivid picture of how these communities lived, worked, and protected themselves.

Finally, the Time Team visits the picturesque village of Bowmore, where they uncover remnants of Islay's medieval past. Bowmore's quaint streets hide stories of ancient trading routes and the development of a vibrant community. As the team uncovers fragments of pottery, everyday objects, and architectural features, they begin to piece together the puzzle of this thriving medieval village.

Throughout the episode, the Time Team encounters challenges, triumphs, and surprises in their quest to understand the history of Islay. Their findings not only illuminate aspects of the island's past but also bring its rich heritage to life.

As the episode draws to a close, the team reflects on their discoveries and the wider implications of their work. By unearthing the stories hidden beneath the surface of Islay, they contribute to our greater understanding of ancient civilizations and the vibrant tapestry of human history.

Join the Time Team on this captivating journey through Islay as they uncover the island's secrets and immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage.